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National Working Women Day observed

ISLAMABAD: The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) Monday observed the National Working Women Day to recognized the struggle of working women to secure a dignified and respectful working environment.

Chairperson NCSW Khawar Mumtaz said that the day was observed to acknowledge the economic contributions made by women to the country. Khawar said despite an improvement in the socio-economic status of women, a lot still needed to be done. She said womens participation in the formal workforce was still low adding 80 to 85 percent women work in the informal sector as labourers and agriculture workers, who are paid only half of what their male counterparts earn. Their economic interests needed to be secured by acknowledging the rights and contributions of home-based workers and introducing policies and laws for them, she added.

The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) on this day expressed deep sorrow and grief over the demise of Asma Jahangir, great supporter for human rights in the country. Chaiperson Khawar Mumtaz NCSW said Asma was an icon of human rights and democracy in Pakistan. She always stood for the rights of the weak and had the courage to challenge the mighty and the powerful.

She devoted her career to defending human and women rights, rights of religious minorities and children. Her services to women rights movement in Pakistan were unparalleled and iconic, she added. Khawar said she was always at the forefront in raising voice for the rights and empowerment of Pakistani women. NCSW acknowledged Asma’s services rendered for cause of independence of judiciary, rule of law and especially for her life-long efforts in promoting human rights. The commission extends heartfelt condolences and sympathies to members of the aggrieved family.